Bhubaneswar: A photo walk on the theme of Mahashivratri, a Hindu festival celebrated across the country to worship Lord Shiva, was organised by Utkala Photography Club (UPC) at Ananta Vasudeva temple, Lingaraj temple Road here Monday.
All the participants of Mahashivaratri Photowalk, as it was called, assembled at Koraput Bhawan in Old Town here at 6:00 pm. The walk was guided by mentor Srikrishna Das and covered Bindusagar, Ananta Vasudeva temple and Lingaraj temple till the lighting of the lamp at the top of Lingaraj temple.
All the participants were well instructed to assemble at the starting point after last ceremony of ‘Diya’.
Speaking to Orissa POST, Srikrishna Das, president of UPC said, “As a part of learning, I’ve added all genres of photography to my group through which the learners will get a broad vision for their future assignments.” He added that the Shivratri themed photowalk was strictly a street photography in which participants learnt taking pictures in low light. The walk was organised so that all the members will enjoy the day of Mahashivratri by getting the blessings of Lord Shiva, he mentioned. “As part of our social responsibilities, we have decided to cover all the festivals and cultural events and showcase it to the highest possible level,” Das concluded.
Jitin Bhat, one of the participants, said, “The photowalk not only gave me opportunity to learn but also provided a chance to know about the rich culture of Odisha.” Thanks to UPC, he exclaimed.
“I love UPC because they never miss any cultural event or festivals of Odisha and I feel proud of being a part of the efforts of connecting world to our heritage,” said another participant Matruprasad Sahu.
It was a wonderful experience to shoot such a huge numbers of devotees at the peak of spiritual energy, said Debanshu Pattnaik. The photowalk is a good learning experience for all amateur photographers in which they can know more about taking pictures in low light condition, Pattnaik added.
It may be mentioned here that the Utkala Photography Club is an active and dynamic group based in Bhubaneswar with a membership that includes photographers of all levels of experience. The club runs a variety of fun activities which include outings, talks, practical sessions and competitions. The Club provides an informal, friendly, and supportive environment for photographers at all levels of experience with interests in all types of photography. The club fosters and encourages growth of artistic vision and technical knowledge, exploring the connection between the eye, the camera and the spirit.